Cardwell Forest Drive
Driving through sugar cane country and a stunning backdrop of mountainous terrain, Cardwell is an easy, two-hour drive north of Townsville and is the start of an adventure through an enchanting pine forest packed full of natural wonders and attractions.
Turn left onto Brasenose Street once you arrive at the delightful, seaside town of Cardwell. Follow the road and it won’t be long until you reach a gravel road, this is the start of Cardwell Forest Drive. Only 26km long this scenic drive will lead you through pine forest plantations to picturesque waterfalls and freshwater swimming holes.
There are four main attractions along the pine tree lined road the Cardwell Lookout, Attie Creek Falls, Dead Horse Creek and the famous Cardwell Spa Pool. The gravel road is accessible to all vehicles and attractions are well sign posted, just look out for the odd pothole.
First stop, Cardwell Lookout. Surrounded by gum trees and pine forest with panoramic views over Cardwell and out to the Coral Sea makes for a serene and peaceful setting with only the sound of cicada’s singing to keep you company. If you come prepared you can venture 630m beyond the lookout by foot and admire mesmerizing views of Australia’s largest island National Park, Hinchinbrook Island.
Cardwell Lookout
Gorgeous views to Cardwell township
Continue to Attie Creek falls carpark. There is a short, sometimes steep walk up to the waterfall but the scenery along the way is magical, teasing you with glimpses of the alluring waterfall. Take your togs to reward yourself with a refreshing dip in the swimming hole or relax and take in the views to the valley below.
Attie Creek cascading down the valley
Attie Creek falls swimming hole
Next stop Dead Horse Creek. Don’t let the name put you off! With multiple swimming holes and small cascading waterfalls, this is a perfect place to stop for a picnic, take a dip and breathe in the fresh, pine scented air.
Dead Horse Creek
Last stop, the famous Cardwell Spa Pool. This natural wonder was by far the most populated destination on our trip, famous for its aqua blue swimming hole and natural spa pool. The water gets its unique colour from minerals in the ground and the spa pool has formed naturally, water flows into the pool creating bubbles just like a spa pool!
Cardwell Spa Pool
This enchanting drive is a must-do for anyone staying or passing through Cardwell. The pools are naturally fed and can dry up during the dry season, before visiting check with the Cardwell Rainforest and Reef Visitor Information Centre on current water levels. Phone or (07) 4066 8601 or call into this fascinating, interactive information hub situated at 14 Victoria Street, Cardwell.
Cardwell Spa Pool swimming hole
Gorgeous, aqua blue water
To top off our road trip North, homeward bound we stopped at the delectable Frosty Mango for a delicious ice cream. Serving up tasty treats with a selection of hand-made mango jams and variety of unique, tropical fruits for sale you can always take home a taste of the tropical North! Frosty Mango is nestled in the foothills of the Paluma Ranges, 40km South of Ingham just look out for the iconic Mango Man!
Frosty Mango's - Mango Man
A selection of unique & tasty tropical fruits
The Cardwell Forest is truly a memorable day out! To make your trip even more memorable and for your comfort don’t leave home without sunscreen, insect repellent and lots of drinking water.
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